Greenville High football coach wishes faith-based comments would’ve been shown in ‘Extreme Makeover’ appearance on ABC-TV
Miss it? Watch Sunday’s “Extreme Makeover” on ABC-TV (click here)
Greenville High football coach Jeremy Williams laughs after being teased on Monday by his assistants about his national TV appearance (Photo by AJC's Curtis Compton)
Greenville – ONE DAY after his heart-wrenching story was told to a national TV audience, Jeremy Williams was back in his comfort zone on Monday — coaching high school football in rural Georgia.
Some things have changed since last February’s taping for “Extreme Makeover” and Sunday’s night’s broadcast on ABC-TV, while other things have remained the same. Williams is progressively getting weaker from the terminal illness of ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease, but the coach’s faith and determination remain as strong as ever.
Williams had mixed feelings about the final edited version of the TV show.
“The whole experience was such a blessing,” he said. “My family and I are so thankful to so many people for everything they did for us.
“My only disappointment was that they cut my faith-based comments out. I’m the man I am because of God. Not because of my strength, but God’s strength. That’s how I can smile and say I have ALS.
“Everybody around here knows that, but I wish the nation would’ve heard that message, too.”
Williams, 38, has seen his health deteriorate a little further since the end of Greenville’s magical season last November. The Patriots, inspired by the resilient attitude of the fiery coach, posted an undefeated record in the regular season, finally losing in the playoffs to the eventual state champions.
Note to Williams from Greenville OL Kenarious Gates, who signed with UGA (AJC's Curtis Compton)
Before Monday’s spring practice at Greenville High, Williams closed his office door and put on an oxygen mask from a portable breathing machine for about five minutes. He uses it 3-4 times per day, including always before heading for the football field, to exercise his lungs.
Williams also had a feeding tube inserted above his rib cage after losing an alarming amount of weight (20 pounds) over a two-week period in February. He still has a healthy appetite and eats regular meals, with the tube providing necessary supplements. He has regained nearly half of the weight.
“They (doctors) said it was from muscle twitching, or fasciculation,” said his wife, Jennifer. “A person like that can burn 1,000 calories per day, and Jeremy couldn’t eat enough to make up for the loss.”
There are also little things noticeable at practice. Rather than parking his golf cart at the gate and walking the rest of the way, as he did last football season, Williams motored onto the field and sat for most of the two-hour workout.
When the coach gave instructions and demonstrations to his players on Monday, he stood for 10-minute intervals and then took a knee to finish observing the drill. He also has been fitted with a brace for his left foot, which was built at a 90-degree angle so Williams doesn’t have to lift his foot as high to carry it over his toes when walking.
Despite all the physical woes, Williams appeared to be upbeat and energetic among his players on Monday. He joked with a couple of freshmen running backs that they might be sitting behind him on sidelines next season if they didn’t learn how to cradle the ball properly. He also yelled with encouragement during five-on-five linemen drills.
Monday's spring practice (AJC's Curtis Compton)
But the talk of the day at football practice, around Greenville, and across the state was the family’s appearance on national TV. Rather than extensive remodeling, the “Extreme Makeover” crew bulldozed the Pine Mountain house of Williams, and built a new one to accommodate the health issues of the coach, along with those of his son, Jacob, who was born with spina bifida.
Among the other gifts presented were college scholarships to Columbus State for the couple’s two children, along with CVS picking up all the family’s unpaid medical bills through mid-February. Greenville High benefitted, too, as the athletic fieldhouse was renovated with new carpet and paint, weight-lifting equipment, and a state-of-the art computer editing system for breaking down game film. The Patriots were also awarded $25,000 worth of new uniforms, helmets, pads and shoes.
On Sunday night, Williams and his family watched the show on a big-screen TV with around 200 friends and family members at a firefighter association’s building in Columbus. Jacob, 7, stole the spotlight with his witty and timely comments during the season-ending episode.
“I think it went wonderfully well and was a good depiction of our family,” said Jennifer, who was recognized by customers at the LaGrange Wal-Mart on Monday.
Home, sweet home, for Williams family (AJC)
“They had your serious moments, and then they would follow it up with a lighter moment. So there was sniffling, and then there was a lot of laughing, especially when Jacob (chimed in) with comments.”
At school on Monday, the coach was congratulated by teachers and students, and took some good-natured ribbing from his assistants. “What was the deal with that 80s haircut in your prom photo?” joked defensive coordinator Tripp Busby.
Williams said he felt a sense of relief after the broadcast of the show. “We’re very thankful for everything, but we’re ready to get back to us being us … you know, a normal way of life. It was a great experience, but it wears you out being pulled in so many different directions.”
Note: I have been contacted by many people who request the email for Coach Jeremy Williams. It is available on the school’s website (click here).
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142 comments Add your comment
Fred Stevens
May 18th, 2010
3:48 pm
My thanks to all the supporters, and to those that despise me yet pray for me, thanks anyway. I’ve live a half century without religion, and don’t plan to make any changes.
I want to commend those that raised the issue if this had been about the Muslim faith would there have been all the pro-religious comments?
To the person the elevated me directly to the level of Satan, thanks, but the hours are much too long.
To those that want to take me out to the woodshed, I’ll gladly turn the other cheek.
To those that claim I have little knowledge of the bible, you are so very wrong. Raised and confirmed in the Lutheran church, son of a member of the church order, etc….
This will be my last comment, so you can have your last words, strike lightening down upon me, smite me, etc…have at it. I’ve been around the world, climbed on pyramids, flown down into volcanoes, and much much more. This chatter we’ve had today will not change many minds, but at least it might give some of you reason to THINK, and that’s all I can ask for.
…and to Coach…I do honestly with you a speedy recovery. If religion helps, more power to you, but also continue with the best of modern science and medicine.
Fred, just one little thinking man….
Barry
May 18th, 2010
3:51 pm
Coach Williams they may have edited your faith out of the broadcast but it was very apparent to me that you had a tremendous amount of faith in God! Your actions, convictions and the look in everyone’s eyes that have been fortunate to know you, showed just what a role model you are to them! Your strong faith in God, passion and dedication to the youths and community is a testament to your life!
lefty fielder
May 18th, 2010
3:53 pm
Fred . . . my last comment as well.
A great gulf exists between religion and God.
scotto
May 18th, 2010
4:05 pm
1. A very great story on strength and the love of family inspiring others.
2. Y’all realize “Extreme Home Makeover” isn’t “journalism”, it is entertainment, right? They don’t do this to be benevolent…they do it for ratings…
grammymoe
May 18th, 2010
4:36 pm
Fred — just an FYI — as of today, there is no such thing as a speedy recovery with ALS, only a speedy decline in muscle loss. There is no effective medication nor therapy. No one has survived though many people have lived 10, 20 even 40 plus years using the science of ventilators, etc. The patient is dependent on others for every personal need and assistance. Here’s to hoping your ignorance to this disease will raise awareness to the fact that more $$ needs to be made available to the doctors and scientists to stop this dreadful disease.
grammymoe
May 18th, 2010
4:38 pm
scotto — benevolence or ratings — it doesn’t really matter as this family now can enjoy the rest of the time that is given to them not worrying about so many financial issues and have more mobility for both Jeremy and Jacob. I for one will support EMHE and CVS.
William
May 18th, 2010
6:03 pm
I wonder if ABC changed some of their policies, because I’ve seen EMHE episodes in which faith base content was more prevalent then this episode.
May God continue to Bless the Williams Family.
Fred
May 18th, 2010
6:28 pm
Why did the trouble maker have be named “Fred”
I think it’s sad that ABC edited out the most important aspect apparently of the coaches life. I’ll bet had he been a Muslim or a Jew they wouldn’t have dared. Regardless, if they want the WHOLE story they should have included it, no matter what the man’s religion is. It is obviously an integral part of this ma’s story/life. ABC was intellectually dishonest in deleting it. Where it about ME and MY life, and quite frankly probably most of us, it wouldn’t have been an issue lol.
@the idiot who said the coach should give back the house so as not to be a hypocrite: They bulldozed his old house you moron.
just damn.
Ginny
May 18th, 2010
10:02 pm
I’ve read all the comments & agree with the majority; God is alive and well!!! I can’t imagine living in this world today without Christ as my Lord & Savior. The “Freds” of this world can believe or not as they choose…that’s why God gave us a free will…what we do or don’t do with it is up to us. God bless Coach Williams & his family.
Marley
May 18th, 2010
10:21 pm
I went to the University of Memphis with Jeremy and had several classes with him. He was a sweet and wonderful guy! I am saddened to hear of his condition and wish nothing but the best for him and his family.
Scott
May 18th, 2010
10:55 pm
To answer your question on why God would allow someone to get a disease such as ALS… Coach Williams spoke at my church’s wildgame dinner one year ago. He said,” I know exactly why God allowed me to get ALS… If I hadn’t, I wouldn’t have been able to speak to you tonight. I have been able to spread God’s message to thousands of young men and people. ALS has givin me an oppertuinity to change lives for Christ. That is why I got ALS.”
Karmen
May 19th, 2010
12:45 am
Dear Williams Family,
I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing your life with the world. Watching your episode left me breathless. My Dad just passed away in March after a two and half year battle with ALS. I am so thankful that, thanks to your courageous family, a public light has been shown on what an awful disease ALS is. I thank you for spreading the word through your story and I am thankful to you for spreading God’s word as well. You are a warrior and you have changed lives. My Dad relied heavily in his faith throughout his illness, and I did as well. Thank you for being such a strong man and I will continually keep your wonderful family in my prayers.
MattR
May 19th, 2010
11:52 am
It is a shame that they didn’t put in his faith based comments. I watched the show with the Williams family and a lot their friends. He is an amazing person and so are his wife and children. The documentary called “Season of a Lifetime” will focus on the coach’s upcoming season at Greenville High School and it will not leave out his faith. There is a teaser trailer on youtube for the film now.
Saved by Grace!
May 19th, 2010
10:05 pm
Remember; it was for Fred that Christ suffered. It was for me and you, for us all, that he became man and dwelt among us here on earth. Many will ask why God let this happen. God has given us free will to decide as we please. Our decisions to neglect our body and damage God’s creation thus resulting in horrible diseases. I know this man and his family. These circumstance has cause such a revival in our community. I’m thankful for the sacrifices and sufferings of those to show me how to live and be content with the wonder and blessings of God.
Bill
May 19th, 2010
10:55 pm
With our far left media etc anything to do with God is a no-no. When God comes they will be the NO-No’s! ABC, NBC CNN all go together, they suck..God Bless you Coach.
mary
May 20th, 2010
10:29 am
I like Jed’s comment (May 18), and I think Fred should read Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis.
chris o.
May 20th, 2010
11:21 am
God bless the Williams family.You all are awesome.My thoughts and prayer are with you through this journey..
I pray for each and everyone of you that doesnt believe in Jesus Christ our savior. Just think about how we all got here on earth,do you think that was science also?..just remember this is our temporary home,we were put here to be tested for eternal life..
Carol
May 21st, 2010
1:45 am
Coach Williams, What a blessing you are. I knew when I was watching that you loved the Lord because that is how you have the joy that you do. I am praying for you and your precious family. If it is the Lord’s will I pray that he would heal you and that you could continue to bless those young men. In Christ.
Bearman
May 21st, 2010
7:10 am
Coach,
First, you have a great family and my family will be praying for your family. You show what you are made of everyday in life and that’s a man of steel. Everybody should be like you and schools across the country would not have a problem. Your kids at home and school love you for the fight in your heart and soul. I truly believe angels in heaven wait for people like you, but with your heart I see you being a father and husband along with being a great coach and influence on young kids for a long time. ” I love you brother and stay strong”.
God bless!
Bearman
The Griffin bears!
Debbie Hardman
May 22nd, 2010
10:09 pm
Praise God from whom all blessings flow! May God continue to give you strength and courage to fight your battle. May God continue to bless you and your family. You are truely an example of a Godly Man.
Sylvia Williams
May 23rd, 2010
9:20 am
Coach Williams & family our prayers are with you! God has given you all such courage and strength. The impact you have made on the lives of your young players will guide them through life.We could all only hope to face challenges the way you and your family have. Sharing your story made us all appreciate life and family that much more. Thank you!
S.Wlliams & Family
Destin Florida
Fred - only using logic AND faith
May 23rd, 2010
9:29 am
Fred (et al) i’ve given your comments a lot of time and thought, and I never respond to blogs because I feel like they serve no purpose other than to allow folks to get into arguments that can’t ever be solved. But, regardless, I wanted to add my 2 cents.
Science is an amazing tool. It has afforded humans throughout the world the opportunity to lead healthier, fuller, and in most cases, longer lives. I have had several family members and friends with cancer – and medical technology played a large part in helping to save/lengthen their lives or at least live with significantly less pain.
However, I won’t call you names for your beliefs. What I ask you to do is acknowledge the faith and belief of others without being hyper-critical. I believe in the goodness of science, but i also believe in the power of God and all that He can do and all that He has provided (like great men who makes unbelievable technological advancements and discoveries) – both the seemingly negative without “any discernable reason why” and the observable good that shines out to everyone.
You ask “why would God let this happen” – perhaps it was in fact to let this man serve as an example to those around who needed to see strength and faith when their own lives were coming down around them. maybe it’s for him to serve as an example to the young men and women in his school and sphere of influence to teach them about overcoming adversity. Who knows, it’s God’s reason why….not mine to question.
I will say this – why him? Well, God will only give you as much as you can handle, so perhaps he gave this man this awful affliction because he knew that he could handle it and serve as an inspiration to others vice someone who questions His faith and would do nothing but complain and wallow in self-pity. You wouldn’t ever be that person would you?
God bless you Fred, and I pray for all who need His strength and salvation.
LCDR, US Navy, Pilot, Intelligence Officer, fan of science and man of absolute Faith.
REALITY CHECK
May 23rd, 2010
9:37 am
LOL! What ever happened to selling all your belongings? Keeping your faith private? Praying in private?
Extreme Makeover?????? Are you kidding me? To glorify GOD????????
hhh222
May 23rd, 2010
10:35 am
God’s Love was, is evident in your every word and expression. You and your family are a living testimony to God’s Grace. Words of testimony are weightless without Living testimony and you guys sure are living it.
from the heart
May 23rd, 2010
12:52 pm
i saw a little of the show and just stumbled upon the article. from what i read he was not angry but his faith is important to him and that he wished some of it wasn’t edited out. FRED STEVENS comments were saying he should be thanking the doctors and that GOD gave him his illness. i wish fred thought differently but he doesnt. then we should pray for him. we should pray for all non believers. REALITY CHECK is wrong. JESUS doenst want us to keep are faith private. praying in private yes but that was said because the religious leaders did it for show. selling all your belongings was to the rich man because he cared more for riches. it is called the gospel (good news ). HE wants his word spread. there are different rolls. missionaries pretty much go and live as the poor countries do. in the end it is all about faith. the BIBLE says without it you cannot please GOD.
JeanE
May 23rd, 2010
12:57 pm
I have read the wonderful heartwrenching series of newspaper stories about Coach Williams and his highschool football team. I can admit, I read his story was going to be on Extreme Makeover but I didn’t watch it because I would’ve cried through the whole thing and I wasn’t up to that. I am not a religious person but I understand that Coach Williams is and all he said was, he was DISAPPOINTED that his faith comments weren’t included in the broadcast. He didn’t “bitch” about it and I can understand his disappointment since his faith is a huge part of his life. He sounds very grateful for the remaking of his home and all of the improvements the show has brought to his life. Coach Williams, you are a great man. If I was in your shoes, I know I wouldn’t be able to be as strong and it does put my small troubles into perspective. If there is a Heaven, you will surely be in it. Thanks for sharing your inspirational story will the world. I won’t forget it. All my best wishes to you and your beautiful family and community.
ugaman
May 23rd, 2010
1:06 pm
it is a great story. yes he has an afflition but his faith seems stronger than ever. i do not understand everything in life but i know that he is LORD. HE IS LORD. HE IS RISEN FROM THE DEAD HE IS LORD.EVERY KNEE SHALL BOW, EVERY TONGUE CONFESS, THAT JESUS CHRIST IS LORD.
Diane Witt
May 30th, 2010
10:23 pm
My words, cannot describe the emotions I am feeling for your family. God has blessed your family with love and devotion to one another. Only God knows how strong you all are, to be able to endure the battles you are going through. You are an inspiration to your ball players, and to “everyone” that knows you.
God Bless You in every way is my prayer.
Kate
May 31st, 2010
1:32 am
I’ve NEVER been more touched by an Extreme Home Makeover episode…so much so that I had to google Jeremy Williams for more info on how he’s doing currently, which led me to this article.
His story has truly inspired me to live life as a better person and be more grateful for every moment. May God bless him and his lovely family.
God's Love
August 19th, 2010
12:21 am
Jesus loves you all! Keep on praying and believing in God for one another!
Life is more than just what we see here on earth, there is eternity too, were there will be no pain or death for those who choose eternal life, that is, Jesus!
And God shows mercy on whom He would show mercy on, He is God! He heals and He can decide to heal our brother, Jeremy William!
Have faith! and don’t get so occupied by too much of what is in the world and thereby forgetting that this is not all there is to life!
Beloved Daughter Of God
September 19th, 2010
8:48 pm
Coach Williams – Thank you for reminding me that, as a believer, God deserves my very best, no matter what the circumstances of my life look like. May His Kingdom be advanced by the story of your faithfulness to Him.
Avery
September 19th, 2010
9:05 pm
Just watching the Home Makeover on ABC. You are are a great man. It is so inspiring to see someone who is so strong and has such a big heart and knows everyday is as important as the next. Congrats to the inspiring and life changing man you are!
éric
April 19th, 2011
8:02 am
good bless you bonjour from france éric
Emilia
April 28th, 2011
7:49 am
I saw the show, and I admire this beautiful family. He loves his family a lot more than complaing about his hillness. For this reason God rewarded him. God bless him.
Jacob Johnson
May 15th, 2011
11:07 am
As remarkable as life has been for you and your family. You have inspired my family especially myself. People who come on and speak badly about this do not deserve what inspires us all. They are the weak and negative parts in our life that we are suppose to notice so that we do not become like them. So thank GOD that there are people like that which help us not become as them. You are the positive side of what we are looking for. Thank you for the inspiration that has come to us, directly from within you that has inspired me to go back into teaching diving. Thank you.
Lesa LePage
November 18th, 2011
3:59 am
What an amazing and inspiring family!!!!
I don’t know that the family will ever see this comment, but please know that at least I knew there had to be faith in God and Jesus Christ that ran very deep. Without a true belief in Jesus Christ, I don’t believe you would have the closeness and wonder that you have in your family!
I would have liked to see it displayed more truthfully as well, but it was obvious to me.
Norma
November 21st, 2011
3:48 pm
I enjoy watching extreme Makeover Home edition, and I just watched a rerun of the Jeremy Williams and family episode. I saw the show on the original air date but I love watching this episode. Jeremy and his family are such wonderful people. He has inspired so many, both young and old, and continues to be an inspiration. I wish Jeremy and his family the best. Hold strong to your faith. God will not abandon you. We don’t understand why and never know when God will call us home but our prayers, love and faith in him will give us a sense of peace.
Beverley James
February 28th, 2012
3:50 pm
I watch EMHE in the UK and just wanted to say that Jimmy and Jennifer are both incredably strong people together and as individuals and that their children are a credit to them as they are so positive about everything which must be difficult sometimes. Whatever someone’s religious beliefs there seems more reason to discuss the very real legacy that this coach leaves behind and the massive love and respect that he so rightly commands. A few more Coach Williams’ would make the world a better place. I wish him and his family much peace and privacy when they most need it x
Victor
March 31st, 2012
11:30 am
Amazing man that show the importance of the inside. Wish everyone had a little part of that man.
Keep fighting, man! It´s time to win!
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